The LAP-BAND® System

The Lap band procedure is minimally invasive bariatric surgery that can help you gradually lose weight and keep it off for a healthier lifestyle. New Hope Surgical Weight Loss Center offers Lap Band Surgery in Chicago and surrounding suburbs as an in-patient procedure with minimal downtime.

The LAP-BAND® system, being a laparoscopic procedure, means that only tiny incisions are made in the abdomen to perform the surgery. The surgeon will then place an adjustable gastric band that creates a small pouch on the upper portion of your stomach. The surgery typically lasts less than an hour and does not have a lengthy recovery compared to other bariatric procedures . This surgery is also available as a single incision laparoscopic (SILS) option, which is done through the belly button with only one incision with virtually no visible scar. It is a safer bariatric procedure when compared to the gastric sleeve and gastric bypass.

QUICK FACTS

Adjustable

Reversible

No cutting of the stomach

Shorter hospital stay

Quicker recovery

Improvement or resolution of Type 2 diabetes

Total mortality rate 0.22%

Schedule an appointment with one of our local Chicago bariatric surgeons to see if the LAP-BAND® system is right for you.

SUCCESS TIP: A monthly follow-up is an essential part of your successful long-term weight loss. Schedule a follow-up consultation at our Chicagoland lap band location.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long is the recovery time after the Lap Band surgery?

The expected recovery time for gastric banding is generally between 2 – 10 days.

How is the band adjusted?

The Lap-Band System can be easily adjusted to limit the amount of food you can eat. The band can be adjusted tighter (for more restriction) or loosened (to allow more food to pass through) by adding or removing saline. The procedure is virtually painless and only takes minutes to complete. It is recommended that you only intake liquids for a few days after the fill before returning to solid foods. Since every patient is different, the number of adjustments, if any, will vary from person to person.

When is an adjustment or fill necessary?

Patients typically have their first adjustment four to six weeks after surgery. There is no limit to how many times the Lap-Band can be adjusted. Keep in mind that adjustments are an essential part of post-surgical care. It is recommended that you regularly follow-up with your surgeon at least every four to six months even if you feel your band is well adjusted.

What are the signs that I may need my Lap-Band adjusted?

An appointment needs to be scheduled if you have experienced any of the following:

• Have not lost weight in two or more weeks

• Have gained weight

• The band feels too tight

• Excess discomfort, heartburn, regurgitation, and coughing

What is the typical follow-up schedule for the Lap-Band System?

A monthly follow-up is one of the keys to successful weight loss with the Lap-Band System. It is essential that the monthly follow-ups continue until the weight loss goal is reached.

Do I have to have adjustment for the rest of my life?

Adjustments vary from person to person. You may require a visit to have the band calibrated to your individual needs. Bands typically need to be adjusted if weight gain occurs or the band feels too tight.

Can the band be removed?

Yes, although Lap-Band System is not meant to be removed. The stomach generally returns to its original shape once the gastric band is removed.

What is the Lap Band system made out of?

It is made out of silicone and titanium.

It is possible that my body can reject the Lap-Band System?

Although it is rare, it is possible for the body reject foreign object such as the gastric band.